The number of electric cars sold in the U.K. hit a record high last year, despite the overall number of cars sold being the lowest it’s been in 30 years.
According to a report from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, just over 1.6 million cars were sold in the U.K. in 2022, which is 2% less than the previous year and the lowest number since 1992.
However, more and more people are choosing to buy electric cars instead of traditional gasoline or diesel cars. In December, electric cars made up almost a third of all new cars sold, and throughout the year, they made up 17% of new car sales. This is the first time electric cars have outsold diesel cars.
Tesla was the top performer in the electric car market, with the Model Y being the best-selling electric car and also coming in third on the list of the top-selling cars overall. Most electric cars are being bought by businesses and fleets, making up about two-thirds of all electric car sales.
The pandemic and shortages of important parts, like semiconductor chips, have made it difficult for car manufacturers to make enough cars to meet demand. This has resulted in fewer cars being sold overall, and some people have had to wait over a year to get the car they want.
Despite these challenges, the industry is expecting sales to pick up this year and predicts 2023 will be a “year of recovery.” However, there are still concerns about the availability of charging stations for electric cars, which may be preventing some people from making the switch.
SOURCE | IMAGES: THEGUARDIAN
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